The infrastructure of the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL) has surpassed 25 years, necessitating significant capital expenditure for the renewal and replacement of ageing assets to ensure traffic safety, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Responding to questions raised by BJP MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, Vaishnaw stated that KRCL’s ageing infrastructure requires extensive updates, including the doubling of tracks and the rehabilitation of tunnels. He highlighted the need for substantial financial investment to address these critical requirements.
To meet the expenditure, the Ministry of Railways has approached the five shareholders of KRCL—Ministry of Railways, Government of Maharashtra, Government of Karnataka, Government of Goa, and Government of Kerala—requesting them to either contribute capital as per their respective shares or relinquish their ownership in favour of the Ministry.
Among the stakeholders, only the Government of Goa has expressed its willingness to relinquish its share in KRCL. The other state governments have yet to confirm their stance on the matter.
“The infrastructure replacement requires major capital expenditure, and the Ministry of Railways has reached out to all shareholder state governments for contributions or to relinquish their shares,” Vaishnaw explained.
The minister’s statement sheds light on the challenges of maintaining ageing railway infrastructure and the necessity of collective efforts from all stakeholders. KRCL, a vital link connecting India’s western coastline, plays a crucial role in facilitating transportation and trade. However, its continued efficiency and safety depend on prompt and adequate investment in its infrastructure.
The discussion also brings into focus the potential for a merger of KRCL with the Ministry of Railways to streamline operations and funding. Vaishnaw’s reply underscores the urgency for collaboration among shareholders to secure the railway’s future.
(With agency inputs)